Our first concern has always been customer service and family.
John Martin, Premier Rental-Purchase Franchisee

Photo RTO Online

John Martin, Premier Franchisee.

After a very brief retirement, John Martin is getting back in the rent-to-own business. Martin is set to open his first Premier Rental Purchase franchise in Valdosta, Georgia this Spring.

John began his rent-to-own career in 2002 when he partnered with his son Mark, then a district manager for Rent Town, in opening ColorTyme stores in Florida.

John and Mark came out of the gate at a gallop, winning the ColorTyme Franchisee of the Year award for 2005 (see story). The pair eventually opened four stores.

After selling their Florida stores in April 2008, Mark opened a ColorTyme in North Carolina and John retired - for 8 months. "I intended to retire - twice, but it didn't work. It's not for me."

One of the reasons cited by Martin for choosing Premier was the HR and payroll services offered through PRPMG. PRPMG is a human resource company that contracts with Premier Franchisees to oversee all human resource aspects of their business.

John says the RTO business has been both personally rewarding and profitable for him and his family, allowing them the opportunity to volunteer time and resources to help others. The secret to his success - "Our first concern has always been customer service and family," John said.

Martin says the Valdosta market serves over 115,000 people and competition is plentiful. Players include Rent-A-Center (NASDAQ:RCII), Aaron's (NYSE:RNT), Buddy's and ColorTyme. But John is just happy to be back. "I have come to know and enjoy being associated with many people in this business."